Terry L Jenkins

Terry L Jenkins, 79 of Marana, AZ, formerly of Decatur, IL passed away peacefully with his wife by his side on March 21, 2026.
Born on May 31, 1946 in Decatur, IL to Galen and Gladys (Gillette) Jenkins. He grew up in Cerro Gordo, where he was the one to watch in sports playing football, track, and basketball. He went on to have a long, respected career as a Chemical Engineer, spending 32 years at Caterpillar in Materials Technology and another 11 years with Chemtool Incorporated. He truly enjoyed the challenge of improving processes and was always glad to help a colleague.
Outside of work, Terry was an avid boater from childhood. He was a fixture on Lake Shelbyville for many years. Rain or shine, he’d be there in his yellow Baja, enjoying fellow boaters and cruising on the water.
Terry is survived by his wife Jane of 33 years, son Kris Jenkins of Avondale, AZ, daughter Kim (Erick) Olson of Lakeland, FL, son Jay Jenkins of Hampton, VA, grandchildren Casey Jenkins, Jacob (Kailee) Olson, Brooklynn Olson, Glady (James) Ross, Grace Jenkins, and great granddaughter Hope Ross.
Terry was preceded in death by his parents Galen, Gladys, his sister Gayle Wertz, and brother-in-law Bob Wertz.
Terry requested any donations be made to Cerro Gordo United Methodist Church at 104 E Carter St. Cerro Gordo, IL 61818.